Yes, I think it is human to feel like an outsider at least some of the time. I also think we have a need to belong to something outside of ourselves.
After I wrote my poem and published it on my blog I realized that “the family of things.” definitely came from my love of Mary Oliver’s poem. I know that what I write comes from all of my life experiences. Soaked up. Baked. Rearranged. With my own twist of lime. And I am forever grateful to all those who contribute to my learning experience.
Thanks for reading and sharing.

Absolutely. We write from our storehouse of experiences and collective words. But in case you’d like to consider…it’s protocol to cite, give credit where it’s due so you might do an asterisk by the phrase and reference her as a footnote or something. I just don’t want you thought ill of or finding yourself in an unwelcome situation down the line. My two cents to take or toss. Have a great wk, Ali.

I appreciate that feedback very much. I didn’t think much about it until I read your comment. I feel very strongly about giving credit to the creator and will edit my piece to show this. I really appreciate your feedback to make this right. I am still very new to the writing world and welcome opportunities to learn from others. Thank you.